The Department of Environment has not approved any plans or projects to demolish reefs (including the World Wave Project, off the island of Qamea, Taveuni). The Minister for Environment, Dr Mahendra Reddy confirms that although the Department is aware of the proposed development, it is yet to receive any Environmental Impact Assessment Report(s) regarding the project.
He also stated that no plans for the construction of the project will be allowed until a rigorous EIA is conducted to ensure there is no degradation of the vital oceanic ecosystems of Taveuni.
Dr Reddy said “Fiji has robust legislation(s) including the Environment Management Act 2005 (and the subsequent regulations) that protect every development activity undertaken (on land, air and water) in Fiji (from adverse environmental impacts). This includes any form of development in and around the coral reefs in Fiji. In addition, The Department of Environment possesses various legislated instruments like the EIA process (under the Environment Management Act 2005) that will assess every development activity in Fiji including the World Wave Project."
“Additionally, the Ministry of Environment also has (in place) specific policies like the Reef Protection Policy that is being actively implemented,” Minister Reddy said.
The Ministry is unable to comment any further (until the EIA report is reviewed and thoroughly assessed), other than to mention, that the proposed development will be put through a rigorous assessment process which includes the project meeting all Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) requirements. This assessment process also includes extensive community consultations with all stakeholder groups (the Department of Environment will be a part of this exercise). The Department will also subject the EIA report(s) to a thorough review and investigation both internally (scientists from the Department) and external experts before a decision is made on the project.
Any questions and or concerns raised will be answered after the above punctilious process is concluded.
Fiji actively champions the protection and the restoration of coral reefs from the threats posed by both climate change and all impacts from human activity.
In 2018, Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama launched the International Year of the Reef, at the Great Sea Reef island of Nukubati (Qoliqoli cokovata) and declared it a “Ramsar site” under the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands.
Minister Reddy praised this proactive approach and foresight from the Prime Minister, that complement the Government's vision and commitment to all Fijians through linking the significance of our marine environment (coral reefs included) to the economic prosperity of our communities.